PRESS RELEASE
22 APRIL 2005
STATEMENT OF DR JAMES MORIARTY, BISHOP OF KILDARE AND LEIGHLIN
ON THE ELECTION OF POPE BENEDICT XVI
On Tuesday evening the joyous words ‘habemus papam’ heralded a moment of
special significance for our church and our world. In his first address
Pope Benedict XVI said, “the Cardinals have elected me, a simple and
humble labourer in the vineyard of the Lord… and I entrust myself to
your prayers”.
In that spirit I would like to invite and encourage parishioners across
the diocese to pray in a special way for our Holy Father, particularly
this coming Sunday for his inauguration. The ministry and journey he
is now beginning, in the footsteps of St. Peter, will be challenging
and I believe we should accompany him as best we can in prayer.
I am delighted to learn that Pope Benedict will attend next August’s
World Youth Day celebrations in Cologne. 130 young people from our
diocese will be traveling to Cologne to participate in what promises
to be an exciting and inspiring event. I look forward to being part
of this diocesan pilgrimage.
Our church now has a new shepherd, a man of principle, faith and vision.
For a long number of years he has, by the side of the late John Paul II,
observed and reflected on the pastoral, liturgical and spiritual life of
our church. May the Lord bless him with good health and a ministry of
prophetic leadership.
Further information:
Martin Long Director of Communications (086 172 7678)
Brenda Drumm Communications Officer (087 233 7797)
